If you are looking for the best Italian restaurants in Southampton, you are in the right place. Whether you are planning a romantic dinner, celebrating a special occasion or simply searching for authentic Italian food, Southampton offers an excellent choice of independent trattorias, waterfront restaurants and traditional family-run Italian favourites.
This guide features some of the best Italian restaurants in Southampton, from authentic waterfront dining at Town Quay and stylish restaurants in Ocean Village to popular city centre favourites near Westquay and the High Street. Every recommendation has built a strong reputation for authentic Italian cuisine, welcoming service and consistently positive customer reviews.
How This Guide Was Put Together
This guide is based on extensive research across public reviews, local recommendations and the overall reputation of each restaurant. Rather than relying on a single opinion, I looked for places that consistently receive positive feedback for their food quality, service, atmosphere and value for money.
When choosing the best Italian restaurants in Southampton, I considered:
- Food quality – Fresh ingredients, authentic cooking techniques and consistency across the menu.
- Atmosphere – Whether the restaurant provides a memorable setting for date nights, family meals or special occasions.
- Service – Friendly, knowledgeable staff and consistently positive customer experiences.
- Value for money – The overall dining experience compared with the price.
- Overall reputation – Consistently positive customer feedback across multiple trusted platforms.
No restaurant has paid to be included in this guide.
10 Best Italian Restaurants in Southampton
From authentic family-run trattorias and waterfront Italian restaurants to modern pizzerias and contemporary dining, these are the Italian restaurants in Southampton that are worth visiting. Click on any restaurant name below for directions on Google Maps.
1. L’Osteria Southampton, Westquay South
L’Osteria Southampton is one of the best Italian restaurants in Southampton, renowned for its huge stone-baked pizzas, freshly prepared pasta and lively atmosphere. Located in Westquay South, it is a favourite for families, groups and anyone looking to enjoy authentic Italian food in generous portions.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
5.0/5.0
Location: Westquay South
Price: Mid-range (£11 to £17 for most pizzas and pasta dishes)
Best for: Authentic Italian pizza and family dining
Must try: 18-inch Margherita Pizza or Burrata Pizza
One of the best Italian restaurants in Southampton. If you enjoy authentic thin-crust pizza, fresh pasta and generous portions, L’Osteria is one of the city’s standout Italian dining experiences.
Why Visit L’Osteria Southampton?
L’Osteria specialises in authentic Italian recipes, serving enormous hand-stretched pizzas, freshly prepared pasta and classic desserts in a vibrant open kitchen setting. Its famous pizzas are large enough to share, making it an excellent choice for couples, families and groups.
Conveniently located at Westquay South, it is ideal for lunch, dinner or a meal before visiting the cinema or enjoying Southampton’s waterfront.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The giant pizzas can be split with two different toppings.
- Perfect for families and larger groups.
- Save room for the homemade tiramisu.
- Book ahead during weekends and school holidays.
- One of the most popular Italian restaurants in Southampton.
2. Ennios Ristorante, Town Quay
Ennios Ristorante is one of Southampton’s finest Italian restaurants, offering authentic Italian cuisine inside a beautifully restored Victorian warehouse overlooking Town Quay. With handmade pasta, fresh seafood and attentive service, it has become a favourite for romantic dinners and special occasions.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
5.0/5.0
Location: Town Quay
Price: Premium (£18 to £35 for most mains)
Best for: Authentic Italian fine dining
Must try: Fresh Seafood Linguine
A superb Italian restaurant that consistently delivers authentic flavours, exceptional service and one of the finest waterfront dining experiences in Southampton.
Why Visit Ennios Ristorante?
Ennios Ristorante focuses on traditional Italian recipes prepared using fresh ingredients and classic cooking techniques. Seafood plays a starring role on the menu, alongside handmade pasta, quality steaks and carefully selected wines.
The elegant dining room and views across Town Quay create the perfect setting for anniversaries, birthdays or anyone looking to enjoy one of Southampton’s best fine dining restaurants.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Seafood Linguine is one of the menu highlights.
- Excellent choice for anniversaries and celebrations.
- Ask about the daily fish specials.
- Beautiful waterfront setting.
- One of Southampton’s leading Italian restaurants.
3. Bacaro, Ocean Village
Bacaro is one of the best Italian restaurants in Southampton, bringing the flavours of Venice to Ocean Village through beautifully presented cicchetti, handmade pasta and carefully selected wines. Its relaxed yet stylish atmosphere makes it equally suited to date nights, celebrations and long dinners with friends.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
4.9/5.0
Location: Ocean Village
Price: Mid-range (£12 to £20 per small plate, around £35 to £50 per person)
Best for: Venetian small plates and date nights
Must try: Truffle Gnocchi and Chilli Squid
One of the best Italian restaurants in Southampton for sharing plates, creative cooking and an excellent wine list. Bacaro delivers one of the city’s most memorable dining experiences.
Why Visit Bacaro?
Bacaro takes inspiration from the traditional Venetian bacari, serving a menu designed for sharing rather than formal courses. The combination of fresh seasonal ingredients, imaginative flavours and beautifully presented dishes has earned it an outstanding reputation among both locals and visitors.
Its location overlooking Ocean Village Marina adds to the experience, making Bacaro an excellent choice for celebrations, romantic evenings or anyone looking for something a little different from a traditional Italian restaurant.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Order several small plates to share.
- The Truffle Gnocchi is one of the restaurant’s signature dishes.
- Ideal for date nights and special occasions.
- Excellent wine list to complement the food.
- One of Ocean Village’s best independent restaurants.
4. Figurati, Ocean Village
Figurati is one of the best Italian restaurants in Southampton for modern Italian cuisine, combining handmade pasta, premium ingredients and stunning marina views. Located in Ocean Village, it offers a stylish setting that is perfect for date nights, celebrations and leisurely weekend lunches.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
4.9/5.0
Location: Ocean Village
Price: Premium (£18 to £35 for most mains)
Best for: Modern Italian dining
Must try: Lobster Ravioli
Figurati combines contemporary Italian cooking with exceptional presentation, quality ingredients and one of Southampton’s most attractive waterfront locations.
Why Visit Figurati?
Figurati focuses on handmade pasta, fresh seafood and seasonal Italian dishes prepared with attention to detail. Every plate reflects modern Italian cooking while respecting traditional flavours and techniques.
Its elegant dining room and marina views make it one of Southampton’s best Italian restaurants for special occasions or anyone looking to enjoy refined Italian cuisine.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Lobster Ravioli is one of the restaurant’s signature dishes.
- Excellent choice for celebrations and date nights.
- Request a table overlooking the marina if available.
- Pair your meal with one of the Italian wines.
- One of Southampton’s finest modern Italian restaurants.
5. Piccolo Mondo, Windsor Terrace
Piccolo Mondo is one of the longest-established Italian restaurants in Southampton, serving traditional Italian cuisine in a warm and welcoming setting. Located on Windsor Terrace, this family-run restaurant is well known for its homemade pasta, classic Italian recipes and friendly service that keeps customers returning year after year.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.8/5.0
Location: Windsor Terrace
Price: Mid-range (£13 to £24 for most mains)
Best for: Traditional Italian dining
Must try: Homemade Lasagne
A fantastic choice if you enjoy authentic Italian comfort food. Piccolo Mondo combines traditional recipes, generous portions and genuine hospitality to create one of Southampton’s most loved independent Italian restaurants.
Why Visit Piccolo Mondo?
Piccolo Mondo focuses on traditional Italian cooking, with homemade pasta, classic meat dishes and freshly prepared desserts taking centre stage. The relaxed atmosphere and attentive service make it equally suitable for couples, families and larger groups.
Its long-standing reputation and consistently high standards have made it one of Southampton’s most trusted destinations for authentic Italian food.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Homemade Lasagne is a long-time customer favourite.
- Ideal for relaxed family meals.
- Save room for the homemade tiramisu.
- Friendly service creates a welcoming atmosphere.
- One of Southampton’s longest-established Italian restaurants.
Why Southampton is Great for Italian Food
Southampton is home to a fantastic mix of traditional family-run Italian restaurants, contemporary waterfront dining and authentic Neapolitan pizzerias. Whether you are looking for handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, fresh seafood or Venetian-inspired small plates, there is an Italian restaurant to suit every taste and budget across the city.
6. La Tavernetta, Civic Centre
La Tavernetta is a popular family-run Italian restaurant in Southampton, serving traditional pasta dishes, stone-baked pizzas and Italian favourites close to the Civic Centre and Mayflower Theatre. Its convenient location and welcoming atmosphere make it a favourite for pre-theatre dining and relaxed family meals.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.7/5.0
Location: Civic Centre
Price: Mid-range (£11 to £20 for most mains)
Best for: Pre-theatre dining
Must try: Homemade Lasagne
A dependable Italian restaurant offering authentic food, friendly service and excellent value. La Tavernetta remains one of the best places in Southampton for a relaxed Italian meal before visiting the theatre.
Why Visit La Tavernetta?
La Tavernetta serves a wide selection of traditional Italian dishes, from freshly prepared pasta and pizzas to classic meat and seafood recipes. The relaxed atmosphere and generous portions have made it a favourite with local diners for many years.
Its location just a short walk from the Mayflower Theatre makes it an excellent choice before an evening performance or city centre event.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Perfect for pre-theatre dining.
- The Homemade Lasagne is highly recommended.
- Ideal for couples, families and groups.
- Book ahead on theatre nights.
- One of Southampton’s best independent Italian restaurants.
7. Bella Italia, Hanover Buildings
Bella Italia is one of the most popular chain Italian restaurants in Southampton, serving classic pizzas, pasta dishes and Italian-inspired desserts in a relaxed family-friendly setting. Located in Hanover Buildings, it is a convenient choice for shopping trips, family meals and casual dinners in the city centre.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.6/5.0
Location: Hanover Buildings
Price: Mid-range (£11 to £18 for most mains)
Best for: Family dining
Must try: Classic Carbonara
Bella Italia offers dependable Italian favourites, generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere, making it an excellent option for families and casual meals in Southampton.
Why Visit Bella Italia?
Bella Italia serves a varied menu featuring pizzas, pasta, grills and classic Italian desserts. With options for children, vegetarians and gluten-free diners, it caters for a wide range of tastes and occasions.
Its central location makes it a convenient stop after shopping, before the cinema or for a relaxed evening meal with family and friends.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Classic Carbonara is one of the most popular dishes.
- Excellent choice for families.
- Children’s menu available.
- Great location in the city centre.
- Ideal for casual Italian dining.
8. Franco Manca Southampton, Westquay South
Franco Manca Southampton has earned a reputation as one of the best Italian restaurants in Southampton for authentic Neapolitan sourdough pizza. Situated in Westquay South, it focuses on slow-risen dough, fresh seasonal ingredients and simple Italian flavours that let the quality of the ingredients shine.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.6/5.0
Location: Westquay South
Price: Affordable (£8 to £15 for most pizzas)
Best for: Authentic Neapolitan pizza
Must try: No. 4 Sourdough Pizza
If authentic sourdough pizza is what you are looking for, Franco Manca consistently delivers excellent flavour, quality ingredients and fantastic value.
Why Visit Franco Manca Southampton?
Franco Manca specialises in traditional Neapolitan pizza made using slow-fermented sourdough and cooked at high temperatures for a light, airy crust. The menu is deliberately simple, allowing the quality of the ingredients to take centre stage.
Its affordable prices and central location make it one of Southampton’s best Italian restaurants for casual lunches and relaxed evening meals.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The No. 4 Pizza is one of the restaurant’s signature dishes.
- Fresh sourdough is made daily.
- Excellent value for authentic pizza.
- Ideal for lunch or casual dinners.
- One of Southampton’s best pizza restaurants.
9. Zizzi, Westquay South
Zizzi is one of the most popular Italian restaurants in Southampton, serving stone-baked pizzas, handmade pasta and contemporary Italian dishes in a relaxed setting. Located at Westquay South, it is a popular choice for couples, families and groups looking for dependable Italian food in the heart of the city.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.5/5.0
Location: Westquay South
Price: Mid-range (£12 to £20 for most mains)
Best for: Casual Italian dining
Must try: Rustica Piccante Pizza
A reliable Italian restaurant offering freshly prepared pizzas, pasta and excellent vegetarian options. Zizzi is a dependable choice whether you are dining before the cinema or enjoying a relaxed meal after shopping.
Why Visit Zizzi?
Zizzi combines traditional Italian favourites with modern twists, offering everything from stone-baked pizzas and indulgent pasta dishes to colourful salads and desserts. Its varied menu caters for different dietary requirements, making it a great choice for mixed groups.
Located within Westquay South, it is perfectly placed for a convenient meal before or after exploring Southampton city centre.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Rustica Piccante Pizza is one of the menu highlights.
- Excellent vegetarian and vegan choices.
- Ideal before the cinema or shopping.
- Comfortable seating for groups and families.
- One of the most popular Italian chains in Southampton.
10. La Collina, High Street
La Collina is an independent Italian restaurant in Southampton that combines authentic recipes with fresh ingredients and friendly service. Situated on the High Street, it has built a loyal following thanks to its homemade pasta, freshly prepared pizzas and welcoming atmosphere.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.5/5.0
Location: High Street
Price: Mid-range (£11 to £20 for most mains)
Best for: Authentic independent Italian dining
Must try: Seafood Linguine
La Collina delivers authentic Italian cooking, generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a great choice for anyone looking to support an independent restaurant in Southampton.
Why Visit La Collina?
La Collina serves a menu filled with traditional Italian favourites, from freshly prepared pasta and seafood to hand-stretched pizzas and homemade desserts. The focus on quality ingredients and friendly service has earned it an excellent reputation among local diners.
Whether you are enjoying a relaxed lunch or celebrating a special occasion, La Collina offers a genuine taste of Italy in the heart of Southampton.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Seafood Linguine is one of the restaurant’s signature dishes.
- Excellent choice for authentic Italian food.
- Friendly independent restaurant.
- Perfect for relaxed evening meals.
- One of Southampton’s hidden Italian gems.
Which Italian Restaurant in Southampton Should You Choose?
If you are still deciding where to eat, the right Italian restaurant depends on the type of dining experience you are looking for.
For an unforgettable overall experience, L’Osteria is our top recommendation thanks to its authentic Italian cooking, enormous stone-baked pizzas and lively atmosphere. If you are celebrating a special occasion or planning a romantic evening, Ennios Ristorante combines elegant fine dining with beautiful waterfront views across Town Quay.
If you prefer contemporary Italian cuisine, Figurati and Bacaro both offer creative menus using premium ingredients, while Piccolo Mondo and La Tavernetta are excellent choices if you are looking for traditional family-run Italian restaurants with a welcoming atmosphere.
Whether you are planning a casual lunch, a family meal, a romantic date night or a special celebration, these restaurants represent some of the very best Italian dining experiences Southampton has to offer.
Looking for More Great Places to Eat?
If you are looking to discover even more fantastic places to eat across the city, take a look at our guide to the best restaurants in Southampton City Centre, featuring some of the city’s highest-rated independent restaurants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best Italian restaurant in Southampton?
L’Osteria is our overall recommendation thanks to its authentic Italian food, huge stone-baked pizzas and consistently excellent customer reviews. Other highly recommended Italian restaurants include Ennios Ristorante, Bacaro, Figurati and Piccolo Mondo.
Where can I find authentic Italian pizza in Southampton?
If you are looking for authentic Italian pizza, L’Osteria is famous for its giant thin-crust pizzas, while Franco Manca specialises in traditional sourdough Neapolitan pizza made using slow-risen dough and quality Italian ingredients.
Which Italian restaurant is best for a special occasion?
For birthdays, anniversaries or romantic dinners, Ennios Ristorante, Figurati and Bacaro are among Southampton’s best Italian restaurants thanks to their outstanding food, excellent service and stylish surroundings.
Where can I enjoy traditional homemade Italian food in Southampton?
Piccolo Mondo and La Tavernetta are excellent choices if you are looking for traditional Italian cooking, serving homemade pasta, classic recipes and warm family-run hospitality.
Which Italian restaurants in Southampton are family friendly?
L’Osteria, Bella Italia and Zizzi are all excellent family-friendly restaurants, offering children’s menus, generous portions and relaxed dining environments.
Do I need to book Italian restaurants in Southampton?
It is recommended to book in advance for popular restaurants such as Ennios Ristorante, Bacaro, Figurati and L’Osteria, particularly on Friday and Saturday evenings.
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